National Cheese and Wine Day 2024

National Cheese and Wine Day 2024

by | Jul 25, 2024 | News

For the cheese and wine lovers, today we are celebrating National Cheese and Wine Day. Here are a selection of our owner, and co-founder Marc Palladino’s favourite cheese and wine from his time spent in Italy and working as a chef.

Provolone Piccante, known for its distinct sharp flavour, is a semihard cheese made from cow’s milk. It is aged at least 4 months, and some consider it to have a spicy flavour. Its origins lie in Southern Italy, and the cheese is produced mostly in the Po Valley region, particularly Lombardy and Veneto. The name is derived from the Neapolitan words prova or provola, which mean globe shaped. This cheese is a great addition to any cheese board and goes well with a glass of Chianti Classico.

Gorgonzola, one of the world’s oldest blue-veined cheeses. Unskimmed cow’s milk is used while preparing the cheese. Generally, it takes three to four months to attain full ripeness. This cheese has a crumbly and soft texture with a nutty aroma. It can have a mild to sharp taste depending on its age. Mainly produced in the northern Italian regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, Gorgonzola. Consumed in many ways on pasta, pizza or on its own with a glass of Bordeaux or Zinfandel. We use Gorgonzola on our Palladino Pizza.

Talleggio, this mild-flavoured cow’s milk cheese has a soft and creamy texture, a strong aroma, and a fruity flavour. Historically linked to the Alpine valley of Val Taleggio, from which it takes its name, Taleggio cheese has been around since Roman times. Currently it’s produced in northern Italy’s neighbouring regions of Lombardia, Piemonte, and around the province of Treviso in the Veneto region. It can be eaten on its own, due to its delightful melting properties, we use Taleggio with a pizza or antipasto.

We can’t talk about cheese and not mention Buffalo Mozzarella. Full of flavour, the perfect cheese for a summer salad, or to serve with a simple drizzle of good quality olive oil. Made with buffalo whole milk, this pearly white sphere of cheese has a unique flavour and is made exclusively in the Delizie Alburnine region of Italy. Once you have tried a premium buffalo mozzarella, you most definitely won’t be able to look back, we use Buffalo Mozzarella on our Insalata Caprese.

We stock all of these cheeses in the restaurant, and they can be made up as a cheese board. Ask your waiter when you arrive with your party.

Is Pizza Healthier Than Cereal? We Asked a Nutritionist for the Facts

Is Pizza Healthier Than Cereal? We Asked a Nutritionist for the Facts

by | Jan 2, 2024 | News

The comparison between pizza and cereal for breakfast is an interesting topic, especially in the context of nutrition and caloric content. Chelsey Amer, MS, RDN, CDN, highlights several key points in this discussion:

  1. Caloric Comparison: Amer notes that an average slice of pizza and a bowl of cereal with whole milk contain nearly the same amount of calories. This challenges the common perception that pizza is always a less healthy option due to its higher calorie content.
  2. Nutritional Content: Most cereals are high in carbohydrates but low in fiber and protein. This composition can lead to quicker feelings of hunger and less energy. In contrast, pizza, particularly due to its cheese content, offers a higher amount of protein. Protein is known for its ability to induce a sense of fullness and maintain satiety over a longer period.
  3. Sugar Content: Many popular cereals have high sugar levels, which can lead to a rapid increase and subsequent crash in blood sugar levels. Pizza typically contains more fat and less sugar than these cereals, potentially offering a more stable energy release.
  4. Balanced Meal: While Amer acknowledges that there are more nutritious breakfast options available, she suggests that pizza can be considered a more balanced meal compared to a bowl of sugary cereal, primarily due to its higher protein and lower sugar content.
  5. Improving Cereal’s Nutritional Value: For those who prefer cereal, Amer recommends choosing options that are fortified, contain 4 to 5 grams of fiber, and are made with whole grains. Adding protein, such as Greek yogurt, and fruits can enhance the nutritional value of the cereal, making it a more filling and nutritious choice.
  6. Shopping Tips for Healthier Cereals: Amer advises looking at the top two shelves in the cereal aisle for healthier options, as they tend to be placed there.

In summary, while pizza might not traditionally be considered a healthy breakfast option, it can, in some respects, be a more balanced choice compared to high-sugar, low-protein cereals. However, it’s important to note that moderation and a balanced diet overall are key factors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.